Choice of harness attachment point for the ASAP
Warnings
- Carefully read the Instructions for Use used in this technical advice before consulting the advice itself. You must have already read and understood the information in the Instructions for Use to be able to understand this supplementary information.
- Mastering these techniques requires specific training. Work with a professional to confirm your ability to perform these techniques safely and independently before attempting them unsupervised.
- We provide examples of techniques related to your activity. There may be others that we do not describe here.
The ASAP, as with any fall arrest system, must be connected to the A (fall arrest) attachment point of the harness.
Example of a harness having an A (fall arrest) point:
The choice of harness attachment point influences:
- Work comfort (ASAP and absorber in front or behind the worker)
- Worker autonomy (can the worker install the ASAP themself, or not)
- The post-fall suspension position, especially in case of unconsciousness
Ventral (seat harness without fall arrest point)
Disadvantages:
- The ventral attachment point is not an A (fall arrest) point
- Risk of inversion if the victim is wearing a pack, or has a heavy object attached to the harness
Sternal
Advantages:
- Position is more ergonomic when suspended
- Rescuer can easily manage the victim's position
Disadvantages:
- The ASAP can take up space in front of the user during work
Dorsal
Advantages:
- Clear work space
Disadvantages:
- Uncomfortable position when suspended: abdomen and airway squeezed if the person is unconscious
- Difficult for rescuer to manage the victim's position